Virtual assistant-initiated conversations

ABSTRACT

Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, a method in which a processing system generates a list of communications desired by a user, and determines an attentiveness level of the user with respect to equipment of the user currently in use, to determine whether the user is available to participate in a desired communication. The method also includes accessing equipment of a target party of the communication to determine an attentiveness level of the target party with respect to equipment of the target party, to determine whether the target party is available to participate in the communication. The method also includes generating a notice at the equipment of the user that the target party is available; and initiating the communication between the equipment of the user and the equipment of the target party. Other embodiments are disclosed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/825,451, filed on Mar. 20, 2020. All sections of the aforementionedapplication(s) and/or patent(s) are incorporated herein by reference intheir entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The subject disclosure relates to a system and method for initiatingconversations over a network, using a virtual assistant (VA)application.

BACKGROUND

A network subscriber often attempts to initiate a conversation over thenetwork with another subscriber (a target party) without knowing whetherthe target party is available or is attentive to their communicationdevice.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are notnecessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary, non-limitingembodiment of a communications network in accordance with variousaspects described herein.

FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating an example, non-limitingembodiment of a system functioning within the communication network ofFIG. 1 , and in which a virtual assistant (VA) of a user communicatesover the network, in accordance with various aspects described herein.

FIG. 2B schematically illustrates using a VA to determine whether atarget party having a VA is available to communicate, in accordance withembodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 2C schematically illustrates a user's VA prompting the user that acommunication with the target party may be initiated, in accordance withembodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 2D schematically illustrates a user interacting with a prompt bythe VA to initiate communication, in accordance with embodiments of thedisclosure.

FIG. 2E schematically illustrates a VA detecting a user's attentivenessfor receiving information obtained by the VA, in accordance withembodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 2F depicts an illustrative embodiment of a method in accordancewith various aspects described herein.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example, non-limitingembodiment of a virtualized communication network in accordance withvarious aspects described herein.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an example, non-limiting embodiment of acomputing environment in accordance with various aspects describedherein.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an example, non-limiting embodiment of amobile network platform in accordance with various aspects describedherein.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an example, non-limiting embodiment of acommunication device in accordance with various aspects describedherein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The subject disclosure describes, among other things, illustrativeembodiments for using a virtual assistant (VA) to initiate aconversation over a network. Other embodiments are described in thesubject disclosure.

One or more aspects of the subject disclosure include a method thatincludes obtaining, by a processing system including a processor,information regarding one or more communications desired by a user; theinformation comprises an input to equipment of the user and/or a verbalstatement of the user captured by the equipment of the user. The methodalso includes generating a list of the desired communications in whichthe listed communications each have a target party; determining apriority order for the listed communications, wherein a communication ofthe listed communications has a first priority; and determining a firstattentiveness level of the user with respect to equipment of the usercurrently in use, to determine whether the user is available toparticipate in the communication. The method further includes accessingequipment of the target party to determine a second attentiveness levelof the target party with respect to equipment of the target party, todetermine whether the target party is available to participate in thecommunication. The method also includes, in accordance with adetermination of the user and the target party being available,generating a notice at the equipment of the user that the target partyis available and initiating the communication between the equipment ofthe user and the equipment of the target party.

One or more aspects of the subject disclosure include a device thatcomprises a processing system including a processor and a memory thatstores executable instructions that, when executed by the processingsystem, facilitate performance of operations. The operations includeobtaining information regarding one or more communications desired by auser; the information comprises an input to equipment of the user and/ora verbal statement of the user captured by the equipment of the user.The operations also include generating a list of the desiredcommunications in which the listed communications each have a targetparty; determining a priority order for the listed communications,wherein a communication of the listed communications has a firstpriority; and determining a first attentiveness level of the user withrespect to equipment of the user currently in use, to determine whetherthe user is available to participate in the communication. Theoperations further include, in accordance with the first and secondattentiveness levels meeting predetermined thresholds, accessingequipment of the target party to determine a second attentiveness levelof the target party with respect to equipment of the target party, todetermine whether the target party is available to participate in thecommunication. The operations also include, in accordance with adetermination of the user and the target party being available,generating a notice at the equipment of the user that the target partyis available and initiating the communication between the equipment ofthe user and the equipment of the target party.

One or more aspects of the subject disclosure include a machine-readablemedium comprising executable instructions that, when executed by aprocessing system including a processor, facilitate performance ofoperations. The operations include obtaining information regarding oneor more communications desired by a user; the information comprises aninput to equipment of the user and/or a verbal statement of the usercaptured by the equipment of the user. The operations also includegenerating a list of the desired communications in which the listedcommunications each have a target party; determining a priority orderfor the listed communications, wherein a communication of the listedcommunications has a first priority; and determining a firstattentiveness level of the user with respect to equipment of the usercurrently in use, to determine whether the user is available toparticipate in the communication. The operations further includeaccessing equipment of the target party to determine a secondattentiveness level of the target party with respect to equipment of thetarget party, to determine whether the target party is available toparticipate in the communication. The operations also include, inaccordance with a determination of the user and the target party beingavailable, generating a notice at the equipment of the user that thetarget party is available; the notice includes a request for a userresponse. The operations further include, in accordance with the userresponse, initiating the communication between the equipment of the userand the equipment of the target.

Referring now to FIG. 1 , a block diagram is shown illustrating anexample, non-limiting embodiment of a communications network 100 inaccordance with various aspects described herein. For example,communications network 100 can facilitate in whole or in partcommunication between a virtual assistant of a user of a communicationdevice and equipment of a target party, where the virtual assistantdetermines an attentiveness level for the user and the target party. Inparticular, a communications network 125 is presented for providingbroadband access 110 to a plurality of data terminals 114 via accessterminal 112, wireless access 120 to a plurality of mobile devices 124and vehicle 126 via base station or access point 122, voice access 130to a plurality of telephony devices 134, via switching device 132 and/ormedia access 140 to a plurality of audio/video display devices 144 viamedia terminal 142. In addition, communication network 125 is coupled toone or more content sources 175 of audio, video, graphics, text and/orother media. While broadband access 110, wireless access 120, voiceaccess 130 and media access 140 are shown separately, one or more ofthese forms of access can be combined to provide multiple accessservices to a single client device (e.g., mobile devices 124 can receivemedia content via media terminal 142, data terminal 114 can be providedvoice access via switching device 132, and so on).

The communications network 125 includes a plurality of network elements(NE) 150, 152, 154, 156, etc. for facilitating the broadband access 110,wireless access 120, voice access 130, media access 140 and/or thedistribution of content from content sources 175. The communicationsnetwork 125 can include a circuit switched or packet switched network, avoice over Internet protocol (VoIP) network, Internet protocol (IP)network, a cable network, a passive or active optical network, a 4G, 5G,or higher generation wireless access network, WIMAX network,UltraWideband network, personal area network or other wireless accessnetwork, a broadcast satellite network and/or other communicationsnetwork.

In various embodiments, the access terminal 112 can include a digitalsubscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM), cable modem terminationsystem (CMTS), optical line terminal (OLT) and/or other access terminal.The data terminals 114 can include personal computers, laptop computers,netbook computers, tablets or other computing devices along with digitalsubscriber line (DSL) modems, data over coax service interfacespecification (DOCSIS) modems or other cable modems, a wireless modemsuch as a 4G, 5G, or higher generation modem, an optical modem and/orother access devices.

In various embodiments, the base station or access point 122 can includea 4G, 5G, or higher generation base station, an access point thatoperates via an 802.11 standard such as 802.11n, 802.11ac or otherwireless access terminal. The mobile devices 124 can include mobilephones, e-readers, tablets, phablets, wireless modems, and/or othermobile computing devices.

In various embodiments, the switching device 132 can include a privatebranch exchange or central office switch, a media services gateway, VoIPgateway or other gateway device and/or other switching device. Thetelephony devices 134 can include traditional telephones (with orwithout a terminal adapter), VoIP telephones and/or other telephonydevices.

In various embodiments, the media terminal 142 can include a cablehead-end or other TV head-end, a satellite receiver, gateway or othermedia terminal 142. The display devices 144 can include televisions withor without a set top box, personal computers and/or other displaydevices.

In various embodiments, the content sources 175 include broadcasttelevision and radio sources, video on demand platforms and streamingvideo and audio services platforms, one or more content data networks,data servers, web servers and other content servers, and/or othersources of media.

In various embodiments, the communications network 125 can includewired, optical and/or wireless links and the network elements 150, 152,154, 156, etc. can include service switching points, signal transferpoints, service control points, network gateways, media distributionhubs, servers, firewalls, routers, edge devices, switches and othernetwork nodes for routing and controlling communications traffic overwired, optical and wireless links as part of the Internet and otherpublic networks as well as one or more private networks, for managingsubscriber access, for billing and network management and for supportingother network functions.

FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating an example, non-limitingembodiment of a system 201 functioning within the communication networkof FIG. 1 in accordance with various aspects described herein. As shownin FIG. 2A, a user 210 (in this embodiment, a subscriber to network 250)has access to a VA 212; the VA can execute as an application (“app”) ona mobile device such as a mobile phone 211-1 or a mobile computer 211-2,or via a non-mobile device with network connectivity, including but notlimited to a device such as video system 211-3. In an embodiment, the VAcan also execute on a dedicated, standalone device. In anotherembodiment, the VA can be accessed via another networked householdappliance.

Various data can be collected and stored on a mobile device associatedwith user 210, or on a separate device (e.g., storage 211-4) accessibleto the mobile device. In this embodiment, the stored data includes typesof information used to determine how attentive user 210 may be at anygiven time. This data can include location data; calendar data (forexample, appointments and scheduled events); sensor data (for example,ambient temperature, ambient noise level, presence of other users); andapplication data (for example, which apps on the user's current deviceare open and which are being actively used).

The stored data may also include a list of the user's desiredcommunications. In this embodiment, list 215 includes the name of theperson or entity that user 210 wishes to contact (target party). As thelist is compiled, each desired communication may be assigned a relativepriority (such as a numerical ordering or labeling high/medium/low). Thepriority can be assigned by the user or by the VA. For example, the VAmay detect over time that the user has been making statements such as“my computer is running slow.” The VA can then create an entry on thelist, with the target party being a tech support center.

The relative priorities of the desired communications on the list canchange over time. The VA can reorder the list so that issues that aremost pressing or most bothersome to the user are addressed first.

In an embodiment, the VA can add other types of communication to thelist 215. The VA can thus record and prioritize a detected need (such asan event on the user's calendar), a perceived need (such as a need toimprove computer performance), or an explicit need (such as hearing theuser speaking (such as the user giving the instruction “set up lunchmeeting with Susie”). Each communication on list 215 requires that theuser be available; accordingly, in this embodiment the VA can employtechniques (e.g., imaging the user's face) to determine whether the useris paying attention to the communication device 211-n that is currentlyin use.

In a further embodiment, VA 212 uses the data to predict anattentiveness level for user 210 (the current level of attentiveness andhow long that level of attentiveness is predicted to last).

FIG. 2B schematically illustrates a system 202 using a VA to determinewhether a target party having a VA is available to communicate, inaccordance with embodiments of the disclosure. In this embodiment, user220 accesses VA 232 as an app on a computing device communicating overnetwork 250, using one or more mobile networked devices such as mobilephone 233-1 or mobile computer 233-2, or via a non-mobile device withnetwork connectivity, including but not limited to a device such asvideo system 233-3. In another embodiment, user 220 accesses astandalone VA device.

Data associated with user 220 can be collected and stored on any ofdevices 233-1, 233-2, 233-3 and/or at a storage device 233-4. This datacan include location data, calendar data, sensor data and/or activeapplication data, as detailed above.

In an embodiment, VA 232 uses the collected data to determine theattentiveness of user 220. Based on the current and stored data, VA 232can also predict how long the current level of attentiveness will last.

As shown in FIG. 2B, communication can be initiated between users 210and 220 via their respective virtual assistants 212, 232. If user 210 ispredicted to be attentive (for example, meeting a predeterminedthreshold value for one or more attention metrics), VA 212 can thenpredict the best mode of communication for user 210. In an embodiment,this prediction is made using device data of user 210. For example, ifsensor data indicates that user 210 is in a noisy environment, the bestmode of communication may be text messaging; however, if user 210 isdetected to be alone at a laundromat, the best mode of communication maybe a voice call.

FIG. 2C schematically illustrates a system 203 in which a user's VAprompts the user that a communication with the target party 220 may beinitiated, in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure. In anembodiment, VA 212 predicts a level of attentiveness for user 210 andselects the best mode of communication. VA 212 then communicates overnetwork 250 with VA 232 associated with user 220, to request theattentiveness level for user 220. In this embodiment, user 220 performsan opt-in procedure to make this information available to VA 212.

If user 220 is predicted to be attentive, VA 212 may invite user 210 toinitiate a communication (for example, the communication with highestpriority in list 215). VA 212 may invite user 210 via an alert on adevice display and/or a sound. In an embodiment, VA 212 can generate averbal prompt, such as “It looks like Susie may be free; do you want meto call her now?”

In accordance with a response from user 210, VA 212 initiates a call touser 220. In an embodiment, VA 232 receives the call and directs it tothe device 233-n of user 220 that is currently in use. Contactinformation for user 220 may be available from a device of user 210 orobtained via a database over network 250.

In another embodiment, VA 212 may generate and deliver a verbalintroduction when user 220 answers, such as “Jim is calling regarding alunch meeting.” In a further embodiment, the VA can use the predictedduration for the attentiveness level of user 210 (and for user 220, ifavailable) to estimate the duration of the call, and add a verbalmessage such as, “Everyone's time is valuable. This call is estimated totake no more than six minutes.” In another embodiment, the VA 212 cananalyze past communications between Jim and Susie regarding the subjectlisted in list 215, and then predict the duration of the call.

In accordance with the predicted best mode of communication for user210, VA 212 may present a screen prompt 241 to invite user 210 toinitiate a communication, as shown in embodiment 204 of FIG. 2D. In anembodiment, the VA can provide a user interface at the user device (e.g.mobile phone 211-1); user 210 may then interact with the prompt todirect VA 212 to initiate the communication.

FIG. 2E schematically illustrates a system 205 that includes a VAdetecting a user's attentiveness for receiving information obtained bythe VA, in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure. In anembodiment, VA 212 determines the attentiveness level and best mode ofcommunication for user 210, and then invites user 210 to receiveinformation (in this embodiment, stored information accessible vianetwork 250).

The information may be data that user 210 had previously instructed VA212 to collect. Alternatively, or in addition, the information may havebeen created by VA 212, based on monitoring and tracking by VA 212 ofdevice data associated with user 210.

In this embodiment, the VA analyzes the information to obtain a set oftopics for the VA to communicate to the user. To initiate thiscommunication, the VA may prompt the user by a verbal prompt or anon-screen alert, depending on the best mode of communication for theuser. For example, if VA 212 detects that user 210 is alone in a car,the VA may generate and deliver a verbal message such as “I have a fewtopics for you; can we talk now?” In accordance with the response byuser 210, VA 212 may generate and verbally present the information thatwas collected.

FIG. 2F is a flowchart depicting an illustrative embodiment of a method206 in accordance with various aspects described herein. In step 2602, aVA of a user (network subscriber) obtains data regarding desiredcommunications (for example, notes input to a calendar, verbalstatements, etc.); the VA then generates a list of the user's desiredcommunications in a priority order (step 2604). The priority order maydepend (at least in part) on the target party of a listed communicationand/or the subject of the communication.

The VA then determines an attentiveness level for the user (step 2606),based on environmental data (e.g., ambient noise), active applicationdata, and/or other factors. If the user is attentive (in thisembodiment, meeting a predetermined threshold for attentiveness level)and thus available to participate in a communication (step 2608), the VAdetermines the best mode for communication (step 2610). In step 2612,the VA then communicates with the VA of the target party of thecommunication (the highest priority of listed communications).

In this embodiment, the target party performs an opt-in procedureenabling the VA to determine the attentiveness level of the target party(step 2614). If, based on a comparison of the attentiveness level with apredetermined threshold, the target party is available (step 2616), theVA prompts the user that communication may be initiated with the targetparty (step 2618). The VA then initiates the communication (step 2620)and may provide a verbal introduction when the target party answers. TheVA also predicts the duration of the communication (step 2622), based onthe attentiveness prediction and/or other factors.

While for purposes of simplicity of explanation, the respectiveprocesses are shown and described as a series of blocks in FIG. 2F, itis to be understood and appreciated that the claimed subject matter isnot limited by the order of the blocks, as some blocks may occur indifferent orders and/or concurrently with other blocks from what isdepicted and described herein. Moreover, not all illustrated blocks maybe required to implement the methods described herein.

Referring now to FIG. 3 , a block diagram 300 is shown illustrating anexample, non-limiting embodiment of a virtualized communication networkin accordance with various aspects described herein. In particular avirtualized communication network is presented that can be used toimplement some or all of the subsystems and functions of communicationnetwork 100, the subsystems and functions of system 200, and method 230presented in FIGS. 1, 2A, 2B, 2C, and 3 . For example, virtualizedcommunication network 300 can facilitate, in whole or in part,generating a list of communications desired by a network subscriber,where the list includes listed communications each having a targetparty, and generating a notice at the equipment of the user that thetarget party is available.

In particular, a cloud networking architecture is shown that leveragescloud technologies and supports rapid innovation and scalability via atransport layer 350, a virtualized network function cloud 325 and/or oneor more cloud computing environments 375. In various embodiments, thiscloud networking architecture is an open architecture that leveragesapplication programming interfaces (APIs); reduces complexity fromservices and operations; supports more nimble business models; andrapidly and seamlessly scales to meet evolving customer requirementsincluding traffic growth, diversity of traffic types, and diversity ofperformance and reliability expectations.

In contrast to traditional network elements—which are typicallyintegrated to perform a single function, the virtualized communicationnetwork employs virtual network elements (VNEs) 330, 332, 334, etc. thatperform some or all of the functions of network elements 150, 152, 154,156, etc. For example, the network architecture can provide a substrateof networking capability, often called Network Function VirtualizationInfrastructure (NFVI) or simply infrastructure that is capable of beingdirected with software and Software Defined Networking (SDN) protocolsto perform a broad variety of network functions and services. Thisinfrastructure can include several types of substrates. The most typicaltype of substrate being servers that support Network FunctionVirtualization (NFV), followed by packet forwarding capabilities basedon generic computing resources, with specialized network technologiesbrought to bear when general purpose processors or general purposeintegrated circuit devices offered by merchants (referred to herein asmerchant silicon) are not appropriate. In this case, communicationservices can be implemented as cloud-centric workloads.

As an example, a traditional network element 150 (shown in FIG. 1 ),such as an edge router can be implemented via a VNE 330 composed of NFVsoftware modules, merchant silicon, and associated controllers. Thesoftware can be written so that increasing workload consumes incrementalresources from a common resource pool, and moreover so that it'selastic: so the resources are only consumed when needed. In a similarfashion, other network elements such as other routers, switches, edgecaches, and middle-boxes are instantiated from the common resource pool.Such sharing of infrastructure across a broad set of uses makes planningand growing infrastructure easier to manage.

In an embodiment, the transport layer 350 includes fiber, cable, wiredand/or wireless transport elements, network elements and interfaces toprovide broadband access 110, wireless access 120, voice access 130,media access 140 and/or access to content sources 175 for distributionof content to any or all of the access technologies. In particular, insome cases a network element needs to be positioned at a specific place,and this allows for less sharing of common infrastructure. Other times,the network elements have specific physical layer adapters that cannotbe abstracted or virtualized, and might require special DSP code andanalog front-ends (AFEs) that do not lend themselves to implementationas VNEs 330, 332 or 334. These network elements can be included intransport layer 350.

The virtualized network function cloud 325 interfaces with the transportlayer 350 to provide the VNEs 330, 332, 334, etc. to provide specificNFVs. In particular, the virtualized network function cloud 325leverages cloud operations, applications, and architectures to supportnetworking workloads. The virtualized network elements 330, 332 and 334can employ network function software that provides either a one-for-onemapping of traditional network element function or alternately somecombination of network functions designed for cloud computing. Forexample, VNEs 330, 332 and 334 can include route reflectors, domain namesystem (DNS) servers, and dynamic host configuration protocol (DHCP)servers, system architecture evolution (SAE) and/or mobility managemententity (MME) gateways, broadband network gateways, IP edge routers forIP-VPN, Ethernet and other services, load balancers, distributers andother network elements. Because these elements don't typically need toforward large amounts of traffic, their workload can be distributedacross a number of servers—each of which adds a portion of thecapability, and overall which creates an elastic function with higheravailability than its former monolithic version. These virtual networkelements 330, 332, 334, etc. can be instantiated and managed using anorchestration approach similar to those used in cloud compute services.

The cloud computing environments 375 can interface with the virtualizednetwork function cloud 325 via APIs that expose functional capabilitiesof the VNEs 330, 332, 334, etc. to provide the flexible and expandedcapabilities to the virtualized network function cloud 325. Inparticular, network workloads may have applications distributed acrossthe virtualized network function cloud 325 and cloud computingenvironment 375 and in the commercial cloud, or might simply orchestrateworkloads supported entirely in NFV infrastructure from these thirdparty locations.

Turning now to FIG. 4 , there is illustrated a block diagram of acomputing environment in accordance with various aspects describedherein. In order to provide additional context for various embodimentsof the embodiments described herein, FIG. 4 and the following discussionare intended to provide a brief, general description of a suitablecomputing environment 400 in which the various embodiments of thesubject disclosure can be implemented. In particular, computingenvironment 400 can be used in the implementation of network elements150, 152, 154, 156, access terminal 112, base station or access point122, switching device 132, media terminal 142, and/or VNEs 330, 332,334, etc. Each of these devices can be implemented viacomputer-executable instructions that can run on one or more computers,and/or in combination with other program modules and/or as a combinationof hardware and software. For example, computing environment 400 canfacilitate in whole or in part obtaining information regarding one ormore communications desired by a user, generating a list of the desiredcommunications, and prioritizing the list to identify a communicationhaving a target party. Computing environment 400 can also facilitate, inwhole or in part, determining a first attentiveness level of the userwith respect to equipment of the user currently in use, to determinewhether the user is available to participate in the communication; andaccessing equipment of the target party to determine a secondattentiveness level of the target party with respect to equipment of thetarget party, to determine whether the target party is available toparticipate in the communication.

Generally, program modules comprise routines, programs, components, datastructures, etc., that perform particular tasks or implement particularabstract data types. Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciatethat the methods can be practiced with other computer systemconfigurations, comprising single-processor or multiprocessor computersystems, minicomputers, mainframe computers, as well as personalcomputers, hand-held computing devices, microprocessor-based orprogrammable consumer electronics, and the like, each of which can beoperatively coupled to one or more associated devices.

As used herein, a processing circuit includes one or more processors aswell as other application specific circuits such as an applicationspecific integrated circuit, digital logic circuit, state machine,programmable gate array or other circuit that processes input signals ordata and that produces output signals or data in response thereto. Itshould be noted that while any functions and features described hereinin association with the operation of a processor could likewise beperformed by a processing circuit.

The illustrated embodiments of the embodiments herein can be alsopracticed in distributed computing environments where certain tasks areperformed by remote processing devices that are linked through acommunications network. In a distributed computing environment, programmodules can be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

Computing devices typically comprise a variety of media, which cancomprise computer-readable storage media and/or communications media,which two terms are used herein differently from one another as follows.Computer-readable storage media can be any available storage media thatcan be accessed by the computer and comprises both volatile andnonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example,and not limitation, computer-readable storage media can be implementedin connection with any method or technology for storage of informationsuch as computer-readable instructions, program modules, structured dataor unstructured data.

Computer-readable storage media can comprise, but are not limited to,random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), electricallyerasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM),flash memory or othermemory technology, compact disk read only memory (CD-ROM), digitalversatile disk (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes,magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devicesor other tangible and/or non-transitory media which can be used to storedesired information. In this regard, the terms “tangible” or“non-transitory” herein as applied to storage, memory orcomputer-readable media, are to be understood to exclude onlypropagating transitory signals per se as modifiers and do not relinquishrights to all standard storage, memory or computer-readable media thatare not only propagating transitory signals per se.

Computer-readable storage media can be accessed by one or more local orremote computing devices, e.g., via access requests, queries or otherdata retrieval protocols, for a variety of operations with respect tothe information stored by the medium.

Communications media typically embody computer-readable instructions,data structures, program modules or other structured or unstructureddata in a data signal such as a modulated data signal, e.g., a carrierwave or other transport mechanism, and comprises any informationdelivery or transport media. The term “modulated data signal” or signalsrefers to a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set orchanged in such a manner as to encode information in one or moresignals. By way of example, and not limitation, communication mediacomprise wired media, such as a wired network or direct-wiredconnection, and wireless media such as acoustic, RF, infrared and otherwireless media.

With reference again to FIG. 4 , the example environment can comprise acomputer 402, the computer 402 comprising a processing unit 404, asystem memory 406 and a system bus 408. The system bus 408 couplessystem components including, but not limited to, the system memory 406to the processing unit 404. The processing unit 404 can be any ofvarious commercially available processors. Dual microprocessors andother multiprocessor architectures can also be employed as theprocessing unit 404.

The system bus 408 can be any of several types of bus structure that canfurther interconnect to a memory bus (with or without a memorycontroller), a peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of a variety ofcommercially available bus architectures. The system memory 406comprises ROM 410 and RAM 412. A basic input/output system (BIOS) can bestored in a non-volatile memory such as ROM, erasable programmable readonly memory (EPROM), EEPROM, which BIOS contains the basic routines thathelp to transfer information between elements within the computer 402,such as during startup. The RAM 412 can also comprise a high-speed RAMsuch as static RAM for caching data.

The computer 402 further comprises an internal hard disk drive (HDD) 414(e.g., EIDE, SATA), which internal HDD 414 can also be configured forexternal use in a suitable chassis (not shown), a magnetic floppy diskdrive (FDD) 416, (e.g., to read from or write to a removable diskette418) and an optical disk drive 420, (e.g., reading a CD-ROM disk 422 or,to read from or write to other high capacity optical media such as theDVD). The HDD 414, magnetic FDD 416 and optical disk drive 420 can beconnected to the system bus 408 by a hard disk drive interface 424, amagnetic disk drive interface 426 and an optical drive interface 428,respectively. The hard disk drive interface 424 for external driveimplementations comprises at least one or both of Universal Serial Bus(USB) and Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 1394interface technologies. Other external drive connection technologies arewithin contemplation of the embodiments described herein.

The drives and their associated computer-readable storage media providenonvolatile storage of data, data structures, computer-executableinstructions, and so forth. For the computer 402, the drives and storagemedia accommodate the storage of any data in a suitable digital format.Although the description of computer-readable storage media above refersto a hard disk drive (HDD), a removable magnetic diskette, and aremovable optical media such as a CD or DVD, it should be appreciated bythose skilled in the art that other types of storage media which arereadable by a computer, such as zip drives, magnetic cassettes, flashmemory cards, cartridges, and the like, can also be used in the exampleoperating environment, and further, that any such storage media cancontain computer-executable instructions for performing the methodsdescribed herein.

A number of program modules can be stored in the drives and RAM 412,comprising an operating system 430, one or more application programs432, other program modules 434 and program data 436. All or portions ofthe operating system, applications, modules, and/or data can also becached in the RAM 412. The systems and methods described herein can beimplemented utilizing various commercially available operating systemsor combinations of operating systems.

A user can enter commands and information into the computer 402 throughone or more wired/wireless input devices, e.g., a keyboard 438 and apointing device, such as a mouse 440. Other input devices (not shown)can comprise a microphone, an infrared (IR) remote control, a joystick,a game pad, a stylus pen, touch screen or the like. These and otherinput devices are often connected to the processing unit 404 through aninput device interface 442 that can be coupled to the system bus 408,but can be connected by other interfaces, such as a parallel port, anIEEE 1394 serial port, a game port, a universal serial bus (USB) port,an IR interface, etc.

A monitor 444 or other type of display device can be also connected tothe system bus 408 via an interface, such as a video adapter 446. Itwill also be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, a monitor 444can also be any display device (e.g., another computer having a display,a smart phone, a tablet computer, etc.) for receiving displayinformation associated with computer 402 via any communication means,including via the Internet and cloud-based networks. In addition to themonitor 444, a computer typically comprises other peripheral outputdevices (not shown), such as speakers, printers, etc.

The computer 402 can operate in a networked environment using logicalconnections via wired and/or wireless communications to one or moreremote computers, such as a remote computer(s) 448. The remotecomputer(s) 448 can be a workstation, a server computer, a router, apersonal computer, portable computer, microprocessor-based entertainmentappliance, a peer device or other common network node, and typicallycomprises many or all of the elements described relative to the computer402, although, for purposes of brevity, only a remote memory/storagedevice 450 is illustrated. The logical connections depicted comprisewired/wireless connectivity to a local area network (LAN) 452 and/orlarger networks, e.g., a wide area network (WAN) 454. Such LAN and WANnetworking environments are commonplace in offices and companies, andfacilitate enterprise-wide computer networks, such as intranets, all ofwhich can connect to a global communications network, e.g., theInternet.

When used in a LAN networking environment, the computer 402 can beconnected to the LAN 452 through a wired and/or wireless communicationnetwork interface or adapter 456. The adapter 456 can facilitate wiredor wireless communication to the LAN 452, which can also comprise awireless AP disposed thereon for communicating with the adapter 456.

When used in a WAN networking environment, the computer 402 can comprisea modem 458 or can be connected to a communications server on the WAN454 or has other means for establishing communications over the WAN 454,such as by way of the Internet. The modem 458, which can be internal orexternal and a wired or wireless device, can be connected to the systembus 408 via the input device interface 442. In a networked environment,program modules depicted relative to the computer 402 or portionsthereof, can be stored in the remote memory/storage device 450. It willbe appreciated that the network connections shown are example and othermeans of establishing a communications link between the computers can beused.

The computer 402 can be operable to communicate with any wirelessdevices or entities operatively disposed in wireless communication,e.g., a printer, scanner, desktop and/or portable computer, portabledata assistant, communications satellite, any piece of equipment orlocation associated with a wirelessly detectable tag (e.g., a kiosk,news stand, restroom), and telephone. This can comprise WirelessFidelity (Wi-Fi) and BLUETOOTH® wireless technologies. Thus, thecommunication can be a predefined structure as with a conventionalnetwork or simply an ad hoc communication between at least two devices.

Wi-Fi can allow connection to the Internet from a couch at home, a bedin a hotel room or a conference room at work, without wires. Wi-Fi is awireless technology similar to that used in a cell phone that enablessuch devices, e.g., computers, to send and receive data indoors and out;anywhere within the range of a base station. Wi-Fi networks use radiotechnologies called IEEE 802.11 (a, b, g, n, ac, ag, etc.) to providesecure, reliable, fast wireless connectivity. A Wi-Fi network can beused to connect computers to each other, to the Internet, and to wirednetworks (which can use IEEE 802.3 or Ethernet). Wi-Fi networks operatein the unlicensed 2.4 and 5 GHz radio bands for example or with productsthat contain both bands (dual band), so the networks can providereal-world performance similar to the basic 10BaseT wired Ethernetnetworks used in many offices.

Turning now to FIG. 5 , an embodiment 500 of a mobile network platform510 is shown that is an example of network elements 150, 152, 154, 156,and/or VNEs 330, 332, 334, etc. For example, platform 510 can facilitatein whole or in part generating a list of communications desired by auser, and prioritizing the list to identify a communication having atarget party. The platform 510 can also facilitate, in whole or in part,determining a first attentiveness level of the user with respect toequipment of the user currently in use, to determine whether the user isavailable to participate in the communication; and accessing equipmentof the target party to determine a second attentiveness level of thetarget party with respect to equipment of the target party, to determinewhether the target party is available to participate in thecommunication.

<tie to a few of the main features of the claims>. In one or moreembodiments, the mobile network platform 510 can generate and receivesignals transmitted and received by base stations or access points suchas base station or access point 122. Generally, mobile network platform510 can comprise components, e.g., nodes, gateways, interfaces, servers,or disparate platforms, that facilitate both packet-switched (PS) (e.g.,internet protocol (IP), frame relay, asynchronous transfer mode (ATM))and circuit-switched (CS) traffic (e.g., voice and data), as well ascontrol generation for networked wireless telecommunication. As anon-limiting example, mobile network platform 510 can be included intelecommunications carrier networks, and can be considered carrier-sidecomponents as discussed elsewhere herein. Mobile network platform 510comprises CS gateway node(s) 512 which can interface CS traffic receivedfrom legacy networks like telephony network(s) 540 (e.g., publicswitched telephone network (PSTN), or public land mobile network (PLMN))or a signaling system #7 (SS7) network 560. CS gateway node(s) 512 canauthorize and authenticate traffic (e.g., voice) arising from suchnetworks. Additionally, CS gateway node(s) 512 can access mobility, orroaming, data generated through SS7 network 560; for instance, mobilitydata stored in a visited location register (VLR), which can reside inmemory 530. Moreover, CS gateway node(s) 512 interfaces CS-based trafficand signaling and PS gateway node(s) 518. As an example, in a 3GPP UMTSnetwork, CS gateway node(s) 512 can be realized at least in part ingateway GPRS support node(s) (GGSN). It should be appreciated thatfunctionality and specific operation of CS gateway node(s) 512, PSgateway node(s) 518, and serving node(s) 516, is provided and dictatedby radio technology(ies) utilized by mobile network platform 510 fortelecommunication over a radio access network 520 with other devices,such as a radiotelephone 575.

In addition to receiving and processing CS-switched traffic andsignaling, PS gateway node(s) 518 can authorize and authenticatePS-based data sessions with served mobile devices. Data sessions cancomprise traffic, or content(s), exchanged with networks external to themobile network platform 510, like wide area network(s) (WANs) 550,enterprise network(s) 570, and service network(s) 580, which can beembodied in local area network(s) (LANs), can also be interfaced withmobile network platform 510 through PS gateway node(s) 518. It is to benoted that WANs 550 and enterprise network(s) 570 can embody, at leastin part, a service network(s) like IP multimedia subsystem (IMS). Basedon radio technology layer(s) available in technology resource(s) orradio access network 520, PS gateway node(s) 518 can generate packetdata protocol contexts when a data session is established; other datastructures that facilitate routing of packetized data also can begenerated. To that end, in an aspect, PS gateway node(s) 518 cancomprise a tunnel interface (e.g., tunnel termination gateway (TTG) in3GPP UMTS network(s) (not shown)) which can facilitate packetizedcommunication with disparate wireless network(s), such as Wi-Finetworks.

In embodiment 500, mobile network platform 510 also comprises servingnode(s) 516 that, based upon available radio technology layer(s) withintechnology resource(s) in the radio access network 520, convey thevarious packetized flows of data streams received through PS gatewaynode(s) 518. It is to be noted that for technology resource(s) that relyprimarily on CS communication, server node(s) can deliver trafficwithout reliance on PS gateway node(s) 518; for example, server node(s)can embody at least in part a mobile switching center. As an example, ina 3GPP UMTS network, serving node(s) 516 can be embodied in serving GPRSsupport node(s) (SGSN).

For radio technologies that exploit packetized communication, server(s)514 in mobile network platform 510 can execute numerous applicationsthat can generate multiple disparate packetized data streams or flows,and manage (e.g., schedule, queue, format . . . ) such flows. Suchapplication(s) can comprise add-on features to standard services (forexample, provisioning, billing, customer support . . . ) provided bymobile network platform 510. Data streams (e.g., content(s) that arepart of a voice call or data session) can be conveyed to PS gatewaynode(s) 518 for authorization/authentication and initiation of a datasession, and to serving node(s) 516 for communication thereafter. Inaddition to application server, server(s) 514 can comprise utilityserver(s), a utility server can comprise a provisioning server, anoperations and maintenance server, a security server that can implementat least in part a certificate authority and firewalls as well as othersecurity mechanisms, and the like. In an aspect, security server(s)secure communication served through mobile network platform 510 toensure network's operation and data integrity in addition toauthorization and authentication procedures that CS gateway node(s) 512and PS gateway node(s) 518 can enact. Moreover, provisioning server(s)can provision services from external network(s) like networks operatedby a disparate service provider; for instance, WAN 550 or GlobalPositioning System (GPS) network(s) (not shown). Provisioning server(s)can also provision coverage through networks associated to mobilenetwork platform 510 (e.g., deployed and operated by the same serviceprovider), such as the distributed antennas networks shown in FIG. 1(s)that enhance wireless service coverage by providing more networkcoverage.

It is to be noted that server(s) 514 can comprise one or more processorsconfigured to confer at least in part the functionality of mobilenetwork platform 510. To that end, the one or more processor can executecode instructions stored in memory 530, for example. It is should beappreciated that server(s) 514 can comprise a content manager, whichoperates in substantially the same manner as described hereinbefore.

In example embodiment 500, memory 530 can store information related tooperation of mobile network platform 510. Other operational informationcan comprise provisioning information of mobile devices served throughmobile network platform 510, subscriber databases; applicationintelligence, pricing schemes, e.g., promotional rates, flat-rateprograms, couponing campaigns; technical specification(s) consistentwith telecommunication protocols for operation of disparate radio, orwireless, technology layers; and so forth. Memory 530 can also storeinformation from at least one of telephony network(s) 540, WAN 550, SS7network 560, or enterprise network(s) 570. In an aspect, memory 530 canbe, for example, accessed as part of a data store component or as aremotely connected memory store.

In order to provide a context for the various aspects of the disclosedsubject matter, FIG. 5 , and the following discussion, are intended toprovide a brief, general description of a suitable environment in whichthe various aspects of the disclosed subject matter can be implemented.While the subject matter has been described above in the general contextof computer-executable instructions of a computer program that runs on acomputer and/or computers, those skilled in the art will recognize thatthe disclosed subject matter also can be implemented in combination withother program modules. Generally, program modules comprise routines,programs, components, data structures, etc. that perform particulartasks and/or implement particular abstract data types.

Turning now to FIG. 6 , an illustrative embodiment of a communicationdevice 600 is shown. The communication device 600 can serve as anillustrative embodiment of devices such as data terminals 114, mobiledevices 124, vehicle 126, display devices 144 or other client devicesfor communication via either communications network 125. For example,computing device 600 can facilitate in whole or in part obtaininginformation regarding one or more communications desired by a user;determining a first attentiveness level of the user with respect toequipment of the user currently in use, to determine whether the user isavailable to participate in a communication; and accessing equipment ofthe target party to determine a second attentiveness level of the targetparty with respect to equipment of the target party, to determinewhether the target party is available to participate in thecommunication.

The communication device 600 can comprise a wireline and/or wirelesstransceiver 602 (herein transceiver 602), a user interface (UI) 604, apower supply 614, a location receiver 616, a motion sensor 618, anorientation sensor 620, and a controller 606 for managing operationsthereof. The transceiver 602 can support short-range or long-rangewireless access technologies such as Bluetooth®, ZigBee®, WiFi, DECT, orcellular communication technologies, just to mention a few (Bluetooth®and ZigBee® are trademarks registered by the Bluetooth® Special InterestGroup and the ZigBee® Alliance, respectively). Cellular technologies caninclude, for example, CDMA-1X, UMTS/HSDPA, GSM/GPRS, TDMA/EDGE, EV/DO,WiMAX, SDR, LTE, as well as other next generation wireless communicationtechnologies as they arise. The transceiver 602 can also be adapted tosupport circuit-switched wireline access technologies (such as PSTN),packet-switched wireline access technologies (such as TCP/IP, VoIP,etc.), and combinations thereof.

The UI 604 can include a depressible or touch-sensitive keypad 608 witha navigation mechanism such as a roller ball, a joystick, a mouse, or anavigation disk for manipulating operations of the communication device600. The keypad 608 can be an integral part of a housing assembly of thecommunication device 600 or an independent device operably coupledthereto by a tethered wireline interface (such as a USB cable) or awireless interface supporting for example Bluetooth®. The keypad 608 canrepresent a numeric keypad commonly used by phones, and/or a QWERTYkeypad with alphanumeric keys. The UI 604 can further include a display610 such as monochrome or color LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), OLED(Organic Light Emitting Diode) or other suitable display technology forconveying images to an end user of the communication device 600. In anembodiment where the display 610 is touch-sensitive, a portion or all ofthe keypad 608 can be presented by way of the display 610 withnavigation features.

The display 610 can use touch screen technology to also serve as a userinterface for detecting user input. As a touch screen display, thecommunication device 600 can be adapted to present a user interfacehaving graphical user interface (GUI) elements that can be selected by auser with a touch of a finger. The display 610 can be equipped withcapacitive, resistive or other forms of sensing technology to detect howmuch surface area of a user's finger has been placed on a portion of thetouch screen display. This sensing information can be used to controlthe manipulation of the GUI elements or other functions of the userinterface. The display 610 can be an integral part of the housingassembly of the communication device 600 or an independent devicecommunicatively coupled thereto by a tethered wireline interface (suchas a cable) or a wireless interface.

The UI 604 can also include an audio system 612 that utilizes audiotechnology for conveying low volume audio (such as audio heard inproximity of a human ear) and high volume audio (such as speakerphonefor hands free operation). The audio system 612 can further include amicrophone for receiving audible signals of an end user. The audiosystem 612 can also be used for voice recognition applications. The UI604 can further include an image sensor 613 such as a charged coupleddevice (CCD) camera for capturing still or moving images.

The power supply 614 can utilize common power management technologiessuch as replaceable and rechargeable batteries, supply regulationtechnologies, and/or charging system technologies for supplying energyto the components of the communication device 600 to facilitatelong-range or short-range portable communications. Alternatively, or incombination, the charging system can utilize external power sources suchas DC power supplied over a physical interface such as a USB port orother suitable tethering technologies.

The location receiver 616 can utilize location technology such as aglobal positioning system (GPS) receiver capable of assisted GPS foridentifying a location of the communication device 600 based on signalsgenerated by a constellation of GPS satellites, which can be used forfacilitating location services such as navigation. The motion sensor 618can utilize motion sensing technology such as an accelerometer, agyroscope, or other suitable motion sensing technology to detect motionof the communication device 600 in three-dimensional space. Theorientation sensor 620 can utilize orientation sensing technology suchas a magnetometer to detect the orientation of the communication device600 (north, south, west, and east, as well as combined orientations indegrees, minutes, or other suitable orientation metrics).

The communication device 600 can use the transceiver 602 to alsodetermine a proximity to a cellular, WiFi, Bluetooth®, or other wirelessaccess points by sensing techniques such as utilizing a received signalstrength indicator (RSSI) and/or signal time of arrival (TOA) or time offlight (TOF) measurements. The controller 606 can utilize computingtechnologies such as a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP),programmable gate arrays, application specific integrated circuits,and/or a video processor with associated storage memory such as Flash,ROM, RAM, SRAM, DRAM or other storage technologies for executingcomputer instructions, controlling, and processing data supplied by theaforementioned components of the communication device 600.

Other components not shown in FIG. 6 can be used in one or moreembodiments of the subject disclosure. For instance, the communicationdevice 600 can include a slot for adding or removing an identity modulesuch as a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card or Universal IntegratedCircuit Card (UICC). SIM or UICC cards can be used for identifyingsubscriber services, executing programs, storing subscriber data, and soon.

The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” and so forth, as used in theclaims, unless otherwise clear by context, is for clarity only anddoesn't otherwise indicate or imply any order in time. For instance, “afirst determination,” “a second determination,” and “a thirddetermination,” does not indicate or imply that the first determinationis to be made before the second determination, or vice versa, etc.

In the subject specification, terms such as “store,” “storage,” “datastore,” data storage,” “database,” and substantially any otherinformation storage component relevant to operation and functionality ofa component, refer to “memory components,” or entities embodied in a“memory” or components comprising the memory. It will be appreciatedthat the memory components described herein can be either volatilememory or nonvolatile memory, or can comprise both volatile andnonvolatile memory, by way of illustration, and not limitation, volatilememory, non-volatile memory, disk storage, and memory storage. Further,nonvolatile memory can be included in read only memory (ROM),programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM),electrically erasable ROM (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory cancomprise random access memory (RAM), which acts as external cachememory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM is available inmany forms such as synchronous RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM),synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhancedSDRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), and direct Rambus RAM (DRRAM).Additionally, the disclosed memory components of systems or methodsherein are intended to comprise, without being limited to comprising,these and any other suitable types of memory.

Moreover, it will be noted that the disclosed subject matter can bepracticed with other computer system configurations, comprisingsingle-processor or multiprocessor computer systems, mini-computingdevices, mainframe computers, as well as personal computers, hand-heldcomputing devices (e.g., PDA, phone, smartphone, watch, tabletcomputers, netbook computers, etc.), microprocessor-based orprogrammable consumer or industrial electronics, and the like. Theillustrated aspects can also be practiced in distributed computingenvironments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices thatare linked through a communications network; however, some if not allaspects of the subject disclosure can be practiced on stand-alonecomputers. In a distributed computing environment, program modules canbe located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

In one or more embodiments, information regarding use of services can begenerated including services being accessed, media consumption history,user preferences, and so forth. This information can be obtained byvarious methods including user input, detecting types of communications(e.g., video content vs. audio content), analysis of content streams,sampling, and so forth. The generating, obtaining and/or monitoring ofthis information can be responsive to an authorization provided by theuser. In one or more embodiments, an analysis of data can be subject toauthorization from user(s) associated with the data, such as an opt-in,an opt-out, acknowledgement requirements, notifications, selectiveauthorization based on types of data, and so forth.

Some of the embodiments described herein can also employ artificialintelligence (AI) to facilitate automating one or more featuresdescribed herein. The embodiments (e.g., in connection withautomatically identifying acquired cell sites that provide a maximumvalue/benefit after addition to an existing communication network) canemploy various AI-based schemes for carrying out various embodimentsthereof. Moreover, the classifier can be employed to determine a rankingor priority of each cell site of the acquired network. A classifier is afunction that maps an input attribute vector, x=(x1, x2, x3, x4, . . . ,xn), to a confidence that the input belongs to a class, that is,f(x)=confidence (class). Such classification can employ a probabilisticand/or statistical-based analysis (e.g., factoring into the analysisutilities and costs) to determine or infer an action that a user desiresto be automatically performed. A support vector machine (SVM) is anexample of a classifier that can be employed. The SVM operates byfinding a hypersurface in the space of possible inputs, which thehypersurface attempts to split the triggering criteria from thenon-triggering events. Intuitively, this makes the classificationcorrect for testing data that is near, but not identical to trainingdata. Other directed and undirected model classification approachescomprise, e.g., naïve Bayes, Bayesian networks, decision trees, neuralnetworks, fuzzy logic models, and probabilistic classification modelsproviding different patterns of independence can be employed.Classification as used herein also is inclusive of statisticalregression that is utilized to develop models of priority.

As will be readily appreciated, one or more of the embodiments canemploy classifiers that are explicitly trained (e.g., via a generictraining data) as well as implicitly trained (e.g., via observing UEbehavior, operator preferences, historical information, receivingextrinsic information). For example, SVMs can be configured via alearning or training phase within a classifier constructor and featureselection module. Thus, the classifier(s) can be used to automaticallylearn and perform a number of functions, including but not limited todetermining according to predetermined criteria which of the acquiredcell sites will benefit a maximum number of subscribers and/or which ofthe acquired cell sites will add minimum value to the existingcommunication network coverage, etc.

As used in some contexts in this application, in some embodiments, theterms “component,” “system” and the like are intended to refer to, orcomprise, a computer-related entity or an entity related to anoperational apparatus with one or more specific functionalities, whereinthe entity can be either hardware, a combination of hardware andsoftware, software, or software in execution. As an example, a componentmay be, but is not limited to being, a process running on a processor, aprocessor, an object, an executable, a thread of execution,computer-executable instructions, a program, and/or a computer. By wayof illustration and not limitation, both an application running on aserver and the server can be a component. One or more components mayreside within a process and/or thread of execution and a component maybe localized on one computer and/or distributed between two or morecomputers. In addition, these components can execute from variouscomputer readable media having various data structures stored thereon.The components may communicate via local and/or remote processes such asin accordance with a signal having one or more data packets (e.g., datafrom one component interacting with another component in a local system,distributed system, and/or across a network such as the Internet withother systems via the signal). As another example, a component can be anapparatus with specific functionality provided by mechanical partsoperated by electric or electronic circuitry, which is operated by asoftware or firmware application executed by a processor, wherein theprocessor can be internal or external to the apparatus and executes atleast a part of the software or firmware application. As yet anotherexample, a component can be an apparatus that provides specificfunctionality through electronic components without mechanical parts,the electronic components can comprise a processor therein to executesoftware or firmware that confers at least in part the functionality ofthe electronic components. While various components have beenillustrated as separate components, it will be appreciated that multiplecomponents can be implemented as a single component, or a singlecomponent can be implemented as multiple components, without departingfrom example embodiments.

Further, the various embodiments can be implemented as a method,apparatus or article of manufacture using standard programming and/orengineering techniques to produce software, firmware, hardware or anycombination thereof to control a computer to implement the disclosedsubject matter. The term “article of manufacture” as used herein isintended to encompass a computer program accessible from anycomputer-readable device or computer-readable storage/communicationsmedia. For example, computer readable storage media can include, but arenot limited to, magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disk, floppy disk,magnetic strips), optical disks (e.g., compact disk (CD), digitalversatile disk (DVD)), smart cards, and flash memory devices (e.g.,card, stick, key drive). Of course, those skilled in the art willrecognize many modifications can be made to this configuration withoutdeparting from the scope or spirit of the various embodiments.

In addition, the words “example” and “exemplary” are used herein to meanserving as an instance or illustration. Any embodiment or designdescribed herein as “example” or “exemplary” is not necessarily to beconstrued as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments ordesigns. Rather, use of the word example or exemplary is intended topresent concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application, theterm “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive“or”. That is, unless specified otherwise or clear from context, “Xemploys A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusivepermutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both Aand B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoinginstances. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in thisapplication and the appended claims should generally be construed tomean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context tobe directed to a singular form.

Moreover, terms such as “user equipment,” “mobile station,” “mobile,”subscriber station,” “access terminal,” “terminal,” “handset,” “mobiledevice” (and/or terms representing similar terminology) can refer to awireless device utilized by a subscriber or user of a wirelesscommunication service to receive or convey data, control, voice, video,sound, gaming or substantially any data-stream or signaling-stream. Theforegoing terms are utilized interchangeably herein and with referenceto the related drawings.

Furthermore, the terms “user,” “subscriber,” “customer,” “consumer” andthe like are employed interchangeably throughout, unless contextwarrants particular distinctions among the terms. It should beappreciated that such terms can refer to human entities or automatedcomponents supported through artificial intelligence (e.g., a capacityto make inference based, at least, on complex mathematical formalisms),which can provide simulated vision, sound recognition and so forth.

As employed herein, the term “processor” can refer to substantially anycomputing processing unit or device comprising, but not limited tocomprising, single-core processors; single-processors with softwaremultithread execution capability; multi-core processors; multi-coreprocessors with software multithread execution capability; multi-coreprocessors with hardware multithread technology; parallel platforms; andparallel platforms with distributed shared memory. Additionally, aprocessor can refer to an integrated circuit, an application specificintegrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a fieldprogrammable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic controller (PLC), acomplex programmable logic device (CPLD), a discrete gate or transistorlogic, discrete hardware components or any combination thereof designedto perform the functions described herein. Processors can exploitnano-scale architectures such as, but not limited to, molecular andquantum-dot based transistors, switches and gates, in order to optimizespace usage or enhance performance of user equipment. A processor canalso be implemented as a combination of computing processing units.

As used herein, terms such as “data storage,” data storage,” “database,”and substantially any other information storage component relevant tooperation and functionality of a component, refer to “memorycomponents,” or entities embodied in a “memory” or components comprisingthe memory. It will be appreciated that the memory components orcomputer-readable storage media, described herein can be either volatilememory or nonvolatile memory or can include both volatile andnonvolatile memory.

What has been described above includes mere examples of variousembodiments. It is, of course, not possible to describe everyconceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes ofdescribing these examples, but one of ordinary skill in the art canrecognize that many further combinations and permutations of the presentembodiments are possible. Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed and/orclaimed herein are intended to embrace all such alterations,modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope ofthe appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes”is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term isintended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as“comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in aclaim.

In addition, a flow diagram may include a “start” and/or “continue”indication. The “start” and “continue” indications reflect that thesteps presented can optionally be incorporated in or otherwise used inconjunction with other routines. In this context, “start” indicates thebeginning of the first step presented and may be preceded by otheractivities not specifically shown. Further, the “continue” indicationreflects that the steps presented may be performed multiple times and/ormay be succeeded by other activities not specifically shown. Further,while a flow diagram indicates a particular ordering of steps, otherorderings are likewise possible provided that the principles ofcausality are maintained.

As may also be used herein, the term(s) “operably coupled to”, “coupledto”, and/or “coupling” includes direct coupling between items and/orindirect coupling between items via one or more intervening items. Suchitems and intervening items include, but are not limited to, junctions,communication paths, components, circuit elements, circuits, functionalblocks, and/or devices. As an example of indirect coupling, a signalconveyed from a first item to a second item may be modified by one ormore intervening items by modifying the form, nature or format ofinformation in a signal, while one or more elements of the informationin the signal are nevertheless conveyed in a manner than can berecognized by the second item. In a further example of indirectcoupling, an action in a first item can cause a reaction on the seconditem, as a result of actions and/or reactions in one or more interveningitems.

Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and describedherein, it should be appreciated that any arrangement which achieves thesame or similar purpose may be substituted for the embodiments describedor shown by the subject disclosure. The subject disclosure is intendedto cover any and all adaptations or variations of various embodiments.Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments notspecifically described herein, can be used in the subject disclosure.For instance, one or more features from one or more embodiments can becombined with one or more features of one or more other embodiments. Inone or more embodiments, features that are positively recited can alsobe negatively recited and excluded from the embodiment with or withoutreplacement by another structural and/or functional feature. The stepsor functions described with respect to the embodiments of the subjectdisclosure can be performed in any order. The steps or functionsdescribed with respect to the embodiments of the subject disclosure canbe performed alone or in combination with other steps or functions ofthe subject disclosure, as well as from other embodiments or from othersteps that have not been described in the subject disclosure. Further,more than or less than all of the features described with respect to anembodiment can also be utilized.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: determining, by a processingsystem including a processor, a priority order for listed communicationsdesired by a user, wherein each of the listed communications has arespective target party; determining, via an automated artificialintelligence process carried out by the processing system, a firstattentiveness level of the user with respect to equipment of the usercurrently in use, wherein the automated artificial intelligence processcarried out by the processing system determines the first attentivenesslevel based at least in part upon sensor data that indicates an ambienttemperature, an ambient noise level, a presence of other users, or anycombination thereof to determine whether the user is available toparticipate in a communication of the listed communications; accessing,by the processing system, equipment of a particular target party todetermine a second attentiveness level of the particular target partywith respect to equipment of the particular target party, to determinewhether the particular target party is available to participate in thecommunication; and in accordance with a determination of the user andthe particular target party being available: generating, by theprocessing system, a notice at the equipment of the user that theparticular target party is available; and initiating, by the processingsystem, the communication between the equipment of the user and theequipment of the particular target party.
 2. The method of claim 1,wherein the equipment of the user comprises a plurality of communicationdevices, and wherein the method further comprises selecting, by theprocessing system, a communication device of the plurality ofcommunication devices for engaging in the communication.
 3. The methodof claim 2, further comprising presenting, by the processing system viathe communication device, a verbal introduction to the communication,the verbal introduction comprising an identifier of the user and asubject of the communication.
 4. The method of claim 2, wherein theselecting is in accordance with data obtained by the equipment of theuser regarding an environment of the communication device.
 5. The methodof claim 2, wherein the communication device comprises a mobile phone,and wherein the particular target party is associated with a listedcommunication having a highest priority in the priority order.
 6. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the first attentiveness level is furtherdetermined in accordance with a user calendar, applications currentlyexecuting at the equipment of the user, or a combination thereof.
 7. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the first attentiveness level is comparedwith a predetermined first threshold and the second attentiveness levelis compared with a predetermined second threshold to determine whetherthe user and the particular target party are available to participate inthe communication.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the equipment ofthe user is communicatively coupled to a network, wherein the user is asubscriber to the network, and wherein the communication between theequipment of the user and the equipment of the particular target partyis facilitated via the network.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein theaccessing of the equipment of the particular target party is performedin accordance with an opt-in procedure performed by the particulartarget party.
 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating,by the processing system responsive to the notice, an indication thatthe initiating the communication is to be performed.
 11. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising predicting, by the processing system, aduration of the communication.
 12. The method of claim 11, furthercomprising: generating, by the processing system, a verbal noticeregarding the predicted duration of the communication; and presenting,by the processing system, the verbal notice.
 13. A device comprising: aprocessing system including a processor; and a memory that storesexecutable instructions that, when executed by the processing system,facilitate performance of operations, the operations comprising:determining, via an automated artificial intelligence process, a firstattentiveness level of a user with respect to equipment of the usercurrently in use, wherein the automated artificial intelligence processdetermines the first attentiveness level based at least in part uponsensor data that indicates an ambient temperature, an ambient noiselevel, a presence of other users, or any combination thereof todetermine whether the user is available to participate in acommunication desired by the user, and wherein a target party isassociated with the communication; accessing equipment of the targetparty to determine a second attentiveness level of the target party withrespect to the equipment of the target party, to determine whether thetarget party is available to participate in the communication; and inaccordance with a determination of the first attentiveness level and thesecond attentiveness level respectively meeting a predetermined firstthreshold and a predetermined second threshold, thereby indicating thatthe user and the target party are available: generating a notice at theequipment of the user that the target party is available; and initiatingthe communication between the equipment of the user and the equipment ofthe target party.
 14. The device of claim 13, wherein the equipment ofthe user comprises a plurality of communication devices, and wherein theoperations further comprise selecting a communication device of theplurality of communication devices for engaging in the communication.15. The device of claim 13, wherein the accessing of the equipment ofthe target party is performed in accordance with an opt-in procedureperformed by the target party.
 16. The device of claim 13, wherein theoperations further comprise predicting a duration of the communication.17. A non-transitory machine-readable medium comprising executableinstructions that, when executed by a processing system including aprocessor, facilitate performance of operations, the operationscomprising: obtaining information regarding a communication desired by auser, the information comprising an input to equipment of the user, averbal statement of the user captured by the equipment of the user, or acombination thereof; determining, via an automated artificialintelligence process, a first attentiveness level of the user withrespect to equipment of the user currently in use, wherein the automatedartificial intelligence process determines the first attentiveness levelbased at least in part upon sensor data that indicates an ambienttemperature, an ambient noise level, a presence of other users, or anycombination thereof to determine whether the user is available toparticipate in the communication, and wherein a target party isassociated with the communication desired by the user; accessingequipment of the target party to determine a second attentiveness levelof the target party with respect to the equipment of the target party,to determine whether the target party is available to participate in thecommunication; and in accordance with a determination of the user andthe target party being available: generating a notice at the equipmentof the user that the target party is available, the notice comprising arequest for a user response; and in accordance with the user response,initiating the communication between the equipment of the user and theequipment of the target party.
 18. The non-transitory machine-readablemedium of claim 17, wherein the equipment of the user comprises aplurality of communication devices, and wherein the operations furthercomprise selecting a communication device of the plurality ofcommunication devices for engaging in the communication.
 19. Thenon-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 17, wherein theaccessing of the equipment of the target party is performed inaccordance with an opt-in procedure performed by the target party. 20.The non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 17, wherein theoperations further comprise predicting a duration of the communication.